How to Treat Adult ADHD
A holistic approach is the best treatment for adult adhd. It can involve individual therapy, medication management and family or group therapy.
Individual therapy can aid in resolving emotional issues that can cover ADHD symptoms. This includes embarrassment over memory and planning problems, resentment over missed deadlines or impulsive decisions and conflicting relationships.
Medication
Many people suffering from ADHD take medication to help them concentrate, pay attention and control impulsive behaviors. It is possible that medication will not work for everyone, and may result in unpleasant side effects, such as loss of appetite or difficulty sleeping. A combination of behavioral therapy, skills training, and medication is the best treatment for ADHD.
Stimulants help treat symptoms of ADHD by enhancing activity in the brain regions that regulate attention and behaviour. These are the most common ADHD medication. They increase the levels of norepinephrine and dopamine, two brain chemicals. The stimulants are available in the short-acting type (methylphenidate) and the long-acting type (lisdexamfetamine dimesylate, also known as Vyvanse). They can also lessen the symptoms of anxiety and depression. People with certain health problems, such as glaucoma or advanced arteriosclerosis, shouldn't take stimulants. People who have taken MAOIs within the last 14 days should not take stimulants.
Non-stimulant medicines are used in situations where stimulants are not effective or cause undesirable adverse side effects. They include atomoxetine, Strattera, and Qelbree which are all part of the antidepressant class of drugs known as selective norepinephrine receptor inhibitors. They increase levels of norepinephrine which help to increase attention and control of impulses. These drugs aren't as quick-acting as stimulants and can have adverse effects, such as insomnia and loss of appetite, but they don't pose the same risk for abuse or addiction as stimulants.
Other medications, like clonidine and guanfacine, belong to the category of blood pressure drugs however they have been approved to treat ADHD. They slow the brain activity that causes hyperactivity, impulsivity and distractibility in adults suffering from ADHD. They also aid in Tourette syndrome and tics. Both medications can take several weeks before they begin to work but they are less prone to side-effects than stimulants.
People suffering from ADHD and other mental disorders can also benefit from taking mood stabilizers, such as lithium. These medications aren't the same as those prescribed to treat depression and bipolar disorder, but they do aid in the treatment of certain symptoms, including anger and poor impulse control. They are prescribed by psychiatrists.
Therapy
Therapy can be an effective treatment option for adults who have ADHD in addition to medication. Therapy can improve relationships, reduce impulsive behaviors and teach skills to help those with ADHD achieve. This may include marriage counseling and family therapy. You can also use it to treat other mental health issues such as depression or substance abuse.
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a form of therapy that gives patients strategies to manage their problems. This kind of therapy focuses primarily on changing negative thoughts that can cause negative behaviors. It can also assist people with ADHD develop realistic expectations for themselves and others. CBT is typically short-term sessions that last 45-50 minutes. It can be done in a group or one-on-one setting.
CBT can help improve executive functioning in those suffering from ADHD which is their ability to plan and organise tasks. It can also help people manage their emotions better. Mindfulness-based cognitive therapy, also known as MBCT is a different treatment option that blends CBT and meditation training. It can reduce impulsivity, improve focus, and improve executive function.
Many adults struggle to recognize the signs of ADHD. They may think they are suffering from a learning disability, mood disorder or another mental health condition. In many cases, they have spent long hours seeking treatment for these conditions before being diagnosed with ADHD. These false starts and alternate diagnoses can lead to frustration as people are convinced that they've been working hard around their ADHD symptoms.
The use of medications is beneficial for the majority of adults suffering from ADHD However, they don't alleviate the severity of all symptoms. They can also cause negative side effects, like headaches, stomachaches and trouble sleeping. They're not for everyone, and they don't stop relapses. This is the reason it's essential to seek treatment from an therapist and follow their guidelines.
adhd adults treatment prescribed medications for adult ADHD are amphetamine-based drugs, such as methylphenidate, bupropion, and atomoxetine. In a recent research study, all of these medications decreased ADHD symptoms over a 12-week period, more than placebo. These studies did not examine the long-term effects.
Self-help
If you have ADHD, it can be difficult to stay organized and complete tasks. It's easy to feel overwhelmed with work, family and daily responsibilities. This can lead you to put off work and have difficulty meeting deadlines, and engage in reckless behaviors. Making steps to address your ADHD will allow you to live a an active and productive life and become more successful at work as well as in relationships.
In addition to medication, there are a number of self-help techniques you can try to manage your symptoms. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) that teaches you how to change negative thoughts and improve your mood, can be helpful. One method that works for those suffering from ADHD is to break down big goals into smaller goals. This helps reduce the fear of failure and increases motivation.
Other techniques for self-help include mindfulness meditation that can help you control impulsivity and increase your focus. Deep breathing exercises can be beneficial in reducing anxiety and stress which is common among those who suffer from ADHD. It is possible to practice this at home, listening to music or sitting in a quiet place. Take long, slow breaths through your nose. This technique helps calm the mind by activating the parasympathetic system.
It is also essential to create a supportive network of family and friends who can relate to your struggles. You can join a local or online support group that can provide advice and guidance for adults with ADHD. You can also find a therapist who specializes in adult ADHD who can assist you to manage your symptoms.
Controlling ADHD is a long-term process, and it's common to experience some setbacks along the process. Be aware that seeking treatment is a positive sign. With the right strategies, you can excel in your relationships at work, and at home.
If you're unsure of how to begin, BetterHelp can match you with a licensed and reputable therapy provider in your area. You can take a free assessment and get started in just 48 hours. The earlier you address your needs, the quicker you'll see results.
Support groups
Support groups are a great resource for those suffering from ADHD and their families. Support groups provide a valuable resource for people suffering from ADHD and their loved ones. They not only offer emotional support, but also provide information about treatment options. It is important to check the credibility of any group prior to attending. To confirm the credibility of a group look for a social media account or website with a verified icon.
The organization Children and Adults with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (CHADD) offers in-person support groups across the United States. These organizations offer advocacy and support, as well as information and networking for people with ADHD. They also offer a directory of healthcare specialists who specialize in ADHD. ADDitude magazine is a national online magazine that provides news, advice and resources to those suffering from ADHD.
Support groups help people with ADHD increase their self-esteem and their relationships can be improved by connecting them with others who share similar experiences. Participants can also learn coping skills and share their struggles with other people. Some support groups are led by trained facilitators, while others are led by peer. These groups might be offered by local mental health organizations and nonprofits. Some may also offer financial aid for those who can't pay for it.
People suffering from ADHD typically have trouble at school, work as well as in their private lives. They are prone to miss appointments, neglect to complete tasks and make impulsive decisions that can frustrate even the most tolerant of friends or co-workers. Adults who are struggling find that therapy and classes that focus on conflict resolution and interpersonal skills can improve their lives.
If you're having trouble finding a support group for ADHD in your area, contact your psychiatrist or doctor. They can refer to a mental health professional who is trained to treat ADHD. Certain psychologists and doctors have been certified as coaches. They can assist you to create a plan for managing your symptoms.
In addition to medications and counseling many people with ADHD have success with an ADHD support group. These groups can assist you in managing your symptoms so you can live a healthier, more productive life.